Here are the steps to properly administer Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time:
- Shake the Bottle: Shake the liquid well before use to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Use the Measuring Cup: Use the provided measuring cup or syringe to accurately measure the correct dose.
- Administer the Dose: Give the child the measured dose directly. It’s best to give the medication when the child is calm, particularly before bedtime to help them sleep through the night.
- Monitor the Child: After administering the medication, monitor the child for any side effects such as drowsiness or nausea. Do not give more than the recommended dose in a 24-hour period.
Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time works through its combination of active ingredients:
- Dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex in the brain, reducing the frequency and intensity of coughing. It is particularly useful for managing dry, non-productive coughs that can disrupt sleep.
- Diphenhydramine, the antihistamine in the formulation, helps to relieve symptoms of allergies and colds, such as a runny nose or sneezing. It also has a sedative effect, helping children fall asleep more easily and stay asleep throughout the night.
- The decongestant component works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing the swelling and allowing for easier breathing, especially when the nasal passages are congested due to a cold.
Together, these ingredients provide a multi-symptom relief solution to ease discomfort, promote better sleep, and help manage common cold symptoms during the night.
Like all medications, Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects include:
- Drowsiness: The diphenhydramine in the medication can cause drowsiness, which is expected and helpful for nighttime use. However, excessive drowsiness can be a concern, especially if the child is sensitive to sedative effects.
- Dry mouth or throat: Antihistamines can sometimes cause dryness in the mouth or throat.
- Nausea or upset stomach: Some children may experience stomach discomfort after taking the medication.
- Headache: Mild headaches can occur, especially if the child is sensitive to decongestants.
- Dizziness: In rare cases, children may experience dizziness, particularly if they stand up quickly after taking the medication.
If the child experiences any severe reactions, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Before using Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time, consider the following warnings and precautions:
- Age restrictions: This product is typically recommended for children aged 2 years and older. For children under 2, consult with a healthcare provider.
- Underlying medical conditions: If the child has conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, or high blood pressure, consult a doctor before using this product, as the decongestant and antihistamine may exacerbate certain conditions.
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives: Do not give this medication in combination with alcohol or other sedatives, as this can increase drowsiness and lead to safety concerns.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist: If the child’s cold or cough lasts more than 7 days or worsens, seek advice from a healthcare provider, as this could indicate a more serious condition, such as an infection.
Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time may interact with other medications, including:
- Other sedatives or antihistamines: Combining this product with other medications that cause drowsiness, like other antihistamines or sedatives, can increase the sedative effects and lead to excessive sleepiness or difficulty concentrating.
- Other cough medications: It is important not to combine this product with other cough medications that contain dextromethorphan to avoid the risk of overdose.
- MAO inhibitors (antidepressants): Taking this medication with MAOIs, used to treat depression, can lead to serious interactions, including increased blood pressure and other side effects.
Always inform a healthcare provider about all other medications the child is taking to prevent harmful drug interactions.
For Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time, the recommended dosage varies by age:
- For children 6 to 12 years old: Typically 10 mL every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 doses in 24 hours.
- For children 2 to 5 years old: Typically 5 mL every 4 hours, with a maximum of 6 doses in 24 hours.
Always check the product label for the exact dosage instructions for the specific formulation being used.
Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, so it does not require a prescription. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if the child has any pre-existing health conditions or if the symptoms persist for more than a few days. A healthcare provider can help determine if this medication is appropriate or if a different treatment is necessary.
1. What is Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time used for?
Answer: It is an over-the-counter liquid medication used to relieve symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion in children at night.
2. What are the active ingredients in this medication?
Answer: It contains Acetaminophen (pain reliever/fever reducer), Diphenhydramine HCl (antihistamine/cough suppressant), and Phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).
3. How old does my child have to be to take this medication?
Answer: It is recommended for children aged 4 years and older. Children under 4 should not use this product unless advised by a doctor.
4. Can this medication help my child sleep better during a cold?
Answer: Yes, the diphenhydramine in it may cause drowsiness, which can help your child rest better while sick.
5. How often can I give Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time?
Answer: Every 4 hours, up to 5 doses in 24 hours, but never exceed the recommended dosage. Always follow label directions.
6. Can I use this medication during the day?
Answer: It is intended for nighttime use due to its sedating effect. A non-drowsy daytime version is recommended for daytime symptoms.
7. Does this medication contain sugar or alcohol?
Answer: Many versions are alcohol-free and may be sugar-free, but always check the label or consult your pharmacist to confirm.
8. Can I give this medicine with other cold medications?
Answer: No, do not combine with other medications that contain acetaminophen, antihistamines, or decongestants to avoid overdose.
9. What should I do if I accidentally give my child too much?
Answer: Seek emergency medical help or contact Poison Control immediately, especially due to the risk of liver damage from acetaminophen overdose.
10. Can my child take this medication on an empty stomach?
Answer: Yes, it can be taken with or without food, but giving it with food may help avoid stomach upset.
11. Will this medication help with a wet (productive) cough?
Answer: It is designed more for dry cough relief; guaifenesin-based medications are better for loosening mucus in productive coughs.
12. Can adults take this medication too?
Answer: It’s formulated and dosed for children. Adults should use a product specifically labeled for adult use.
13. Is it safe for children with asthma or other chronic conditions?
Answer: Consult your doctor before use if your child has asthma, liver disease, heart problems, or other chronic conditions.
14. Can this medication cause drowsiness the next morning?
Answer: Yes, some children may experience residual drowsiness the next morning. Monitor your child’s reaction.
15. What are the common side effects?
Answer: Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, or upset stomach are common. Severe reactions are rare but require medical attention.
16. Can I use this if my child is already taking allergy medicine?
Answer: No, avoid combining with other antihistamines to prevent excessive drowsiness or other side effects. Ask a doctor first.
17. How should this medication be stored?
Answer: Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.
18. What flavor does Children’s Delsym Cough Plus Cold Night Time come in?
Answer: It is commonly available in berry flavor, which many children find palatable.
19. Can it be given during teething or flu?
Answer: It is for cold and cough symptoms. While it may help with flu-like symptoms, it’s not meant for teething pain.
20. How do I measure the correct dose?
Answer: Always use the included dosing cup or a medication syringe—not a kitchen spoon—for accurate measurement.